Read: Matthew 4:18-22 | Listen: Matthew 4

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said. Matthew 4:19a

Jesus returns to Galilee to begin his ministry after being baptized and tempted by Satan in the wilderness. He first calls people to repent because “the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 4:17). Then he begins inviting ordinary, often unlikely people to become his disciples. Jesus, the perfect rabbi, calls them on a journey not simply to learn his teachings but to become like him. A disciple, or apprentice learner, spends each day with his teacher, walking, eating, listening, and learning. Disciples walk so closely behind their rabbi that the dust from his feet covers them!

The same invitation to discipleship extends to us today. Following Jesus begins when we put our trust in him, but it doesn’t stop there. It means more than learning facts about him. It means walking closely with him every day, learning his ways, and allowing him to shape who we become. It’s a lifelong journey of obeying his Word and becoming more like him. As we begin this three-week sermon series, we’ll explore what it means to follow Jesus, grow together, and pursue God’s mission. These aren’t just ideas to understand; they’re ways of life to put into practice as we walk closely with Jesus.

TODAY: Commit to attending church for all three weeks of this series. Mark the dates on your calendar and make being there a priority. Each week, ask God to deepen your love for Jesus, show you where you need to grow, and help you put what you learn into practice.